Published on 21st November 2019

Blue car

Cheltenham Borough Council has successfully prosecuted Liam Berry for abandoning his blue Ford Fiesta Ghia in Welch Road.

The vehicle was found in poor condition and deemed abandoned when reported to the council’s community protection team.

Mr Berry did not attend court, but the matter was still proven in his absence. As a result, he was ordered to pay a fine of £440, a victim surcharge of £44 and costs of £923.26.

The public protection department informed Mr Berry via post and with a notice on the vehicle, that he had 14 days to move the vehicle or he would face further legal action. When the vehicle was not removed, Mr Berry was issued with a fixed penalty notice of £200 which he subsequently failed to pay.

Brian Daughtrey, community protection officer for Cheltenham Borough Council, said: “I’m very pleased with this result as it shows how we will not hesitate to take legal action against people who commit these offences.”

“We hope that the result of this case will discourage others from abandoning their vehicles in ways which cause further risk and disruption for other people.”

The maximum penalty for abandoning a vehicle on conviction is £2,500 and/or a three month prison sentence. See the council's website for more information on abandoned vehicles and how to report them.